Some points that I found interesting:
Leonard set up "Alexandra Leaving" (performed by Sharon) and "Coming Back to You" (performed by by the Webbs) by reciting a few lines from each song. Reciting lines from a song as an opener is something that Leonard used to do in prior tours, but not in the tour of 2008-2010.
Leonard concluded "Closing Time" by reciting from "Never Got to Love You": "They ought to hand the night A ticket / For speeding: it's a crime / I had so much to tell you / But now it's closing time".
This 3.5 hrs concert ended after "I Tried to Leave You", the last dance was not saved.
It seems that the photo police have relaxed a bit, photos were allowed but not video.

joyezekiel wrote:
The band was on great form - Roscoe and Mitch obviously happy to be on their home turf. To be honest, I thought Leonard seemed somewhat serious at the beginning. In fact, I did wonder if he was in pain as he kept putting his hand to the small of his back - did anyone else notice this? He was definitely chirpier in the second half. Maybe it was just me being super-vigilant in my observations and concern for the well-being of a 78 year old gentleman? (I also noticed silly things like watches and rings appearing and disappearing throughout the evening, but I don't suppose they had any significance.)

Altogether a great kick-off to the US tour and I can't wait for my next concerts.

Oh, and Rachel.... yes, there were quite a few people in fancy dress! Austin is always a fantastic place for people-watching, but it excelled itself last night!

Joy

Joy, thank you for answering my question & thank you for the beautiful, full-of-feeling concert report - I love it! I certainly hope Leonard was not in pain , & glad to hear that signs of such a possiblity were absent after the first set. I love your remark about the rings & watches - you never know, it might be a very significant thing - esp. if they were disappearing into, & returning from, the fifth dimension, which, given the fact that Leonard Cohen was present, is quite possible. . .

Glad you had a great time, thanks again for the lovely report!

And Hartmut: Of course I had to ask, it's a very important detail of this historical evening. . .

If I don't make error, it's the first time Léonard sings "Anyhow"? He had not interpreted it in Europ.
It pleases to see him so funny and in shape.
Please, Arlene, other comments after... a good night of rest and...dreams...
Thank you